All students study science in years 7-11. We believe that students deserve a broad, progressive and ambitious Science curriculum, rich in skills and knowledge which stimulates curiosity and a wonder of their world and prepares them well for future learning or employment.

The science curriculum for the students of Rossington All Saints Academy has been designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the scientific knowledge and ideas that impact them as individuals within a local and globalised context. As they move through the curriculum, students will be increasingly made to develop their curiosity, provide insight into working scientifically and appreciate the value of science in their everyday lives. Our curriculum provides a platform for more advanced science based study, providing a gateway into a wide range of career opportunities. It also delivers a framework for understanding the natural world and supporting students to become scientifically literate participants in society.

At Rossington All Saints Academy we support the learning in lessons with many enrichment opportunities such as STEM club, visits to TeenTech, University trips and even a trip to Iceland. We endeavour to show the links between Science and other subjects as well as links with the local area.

Intent

Key Stage 3

At KS3 we have a spiral curriculum with threshold concepts being revisited at the beginning of every topic within the strand. This gives students firm foundations upon which to build deeper knowledge. We have a focus on practical skills throughout KS3 to ensure these are fully embedded for further study. We also strive to give lots of real-life examples of science in action, this allows students to be able to communicate their learning with other people and to explore careers in the science industry.

Key Stage 4

At GCSE we follow the AQA combined science route for most students. The students will study topics that cover Biology, Chemistry and Physics knowledge. Some students will follow the separate science route where they will deepen their knowledge further in each topic. These topics build on the concepts first met at KS3 and develop understanding further to ensure students become fluent in their scientific understanding.

In Biology we tackle core concepts such as cells, bioenergetics and ecology and these allow us to study recent developments in areas such as infection, inheritance and evolution. Working scientifically is an important skill for all students so we ensure we embed experiments throughout the biology topics.

In Chemistry we begin by developing a deep knowledge and understanding across the three key building blocks of Chemistry: the atom, the periodic table and chemical reactions. We use these concepts as a starting point for all chemical knowledge and students are able to find answers through investigation and an understanding of developing scientific models. Our aim is for students to be able to work like an expert chemist.

In Physics our curriculum revolves around the central themes of Energy, Particles and Forces. Through the study of these larger themes, other associated fields are interwoven and provide practical context. Magnetism, particles, states of matter, waves and electricity are presented cyclically throughout KS3 and return in at GCSE. These topics provide insight and knowledge about the cornerstones of our everyday world and the role of our common day technology. They also provide insight about larger-scale phenomena and the grandeur and power of mankind’s most sophisticated technological achievements.

Rossington All Saints Academy Values in Science 

Community: Work collectively as a team during practical work. Discuss and debate ideas to protect biodiversity and reduce the use of single use plastics- focussing on moral and ethical issues surrounding the problems. Consider issues faced by less developed countries when tackling environmental issues.

Aspiration: Experience and understand life in its fullness – gain a deeper understanding of how the world works from a scientific viewpoint.  Experience science through enriching visits to universities and residential trips abroad. Explore the learnings of famous scientists such as Watson and Crick, J.J Thompson, Dimitri Mendeleev and Robert Hooke.

Resilience: Look for solutions, not stopping at the first hurdle.  Appreciate how actions can have positive outcomes on the world, physical and mental well-being, such as the global impact recycling has on biodiversity and global warming. Learning from Scientists who persevered with ideas such as Mendeleev and scientists involved in The Human Genome project.

Excellence: students are encouraged to understand the world in which they live, in pursuit of learning and make a positive difference for the future. Students are encouraged to strive to do the best they can do in Science through independent and collaborative learning.

Learning Journey

Possible pathways

These qualifications allows you to access A-Level and equivalent courses, progressing onto Degree level. Students wishing to pursue a career in: medicine, veterinary nursing, laboratory work, physiotherapy, forensic science, environmental work, dentistry, teaching and skilled trade work will  require a qualification in Science.

KS4 Coverage

Qualification nameExam BoardAssessment detailsLink to specifications
GCSE Combined Science: TrilogyAQA6 papers
2 for each Biology, Chemistry and Physics – 1 hr 15 minutes each; 100% examination
https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-trilogy-8464
GCSE BiologyAQA2 Paper 1 hr 45 minutes each – 100% examinationhttps://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/biology-8461
GCSE ChemistryAQA2 Paper 1 hr 45 minutes each – 100% examinationhttps://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/chemistry-8462
GCSE PhysicsAQA2 Paper 1 hr 45 minutes each – 100% examinationhttps://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/physics-8463